Let’s explore 25 ways to decorate an RV or Camper. Who says our RV cannot reflect our style? Whether you just want to add small details or larger projects, you can decorate your RV to feel comfortable, just like home. When you walk into your room at a hotel or resort, you immediately know if you will feel like you are on vacation or just another work conference. Walking into your RV should always make you want to stay and enjoy yourself as long as possible.
We have ideas no matter if your style is Farmhouse Chic, Rustic, Industrial, Whimsical, or Minimalist. We know there is limited space, but there are still ways to add personality without losing space and functionality. Choosing functional decor is essential.
Let’s dive right in.
Contents
- 1. Add Wallpaper
- 2. Personality with Pillows
- 3. Baskets and Bins
- 4. Curtains, Curtains, Curtains
- 5. Knobs, Pegs, and Hooks
- 6. Fixtures
- 7. Rugs
- 8. Shelves
- 9. Blankets and Throws
- 10. Art
- 11. Hanging your towels as decor to free up storage
- 12. Light fixtures and Lamps
- 13. Lighting accents as decor. String lights
- 14. Incorporating your appliances into the decor.
- 15. Mirrors
- 16. Make lifestyle Choices Decor: Coffee, Tea, Music, Office, Faith, Humor
- 17. Add vinyl and lettering
- 18. Furniture covers
- 19. Functional furniture
- 20. Decorating Your Entry
- 21. Bedding
- 22. Plants and flowers
- 23. Countertop Makeovers
- 24. Color
- 25. Paint
1. Add Wallpaper
This RV owner likes boats. They chose a bold wallpaper to represent this.
Adding wallpaper can take a space and change its vibe quickly. Pops of geometric patterns, flower prints, or even plaids can add color with little effort.
This delicate flowery pattern adds femininity without being overwhelming. It reflects a sweet, pure, quiet environment. This is a place I would love to read a book on a spring day.
Adding wallpaper or sticky tile to a backsplash can be a wow for minimal effort. Backsplashes are a great design feature. Choose materials that are easy to clean and resist heat and oils for the best results.
Decide what walls you want to wallpaper, and remember less is more in small confined spaces. Most RV walls are safe to wallpaper, but a sample test will help you decide on the print and material compatibility.
Adding wallpaper to the front of a step up into your bedroom or 5th wheel can add character and look expensive.
The interior of an RV is a compact space packed with furniture and essentials, so it’s best to avoid large walls and dark-colored or busy patterns. It may be time to ditch the dark browns for lighter colors to create the illusion of space. White or light-toned wallpaper usually works best for campers and RVs. Check out this before and after.
2. Personality with Pillows
Every amateur decorator knows that you can add pops of color, whimsy, and philosophy with just a few throw pillows. No matter your personal style, there is a throw pillow that will reflect it.
Remember to add pillows in moderation. When you want to use your dinette seats, pull-out sofa, or even your bed, those pillows have to go somewhere, and space is limited. Pick patterns, colors, or phrases that you love and bring you joy.
Throw Pillows can be changed with your mood. Funny expressions, vibrant colors, and even holiday pillows can be added and removed. I like to buy pillow shams so that the slips not used can stay on the pillows and just switch around. Storage issue averted.
3. Baskets and Bins
Everything you can do to add storage is a great idea. When you purchase an RV, you may look around and be so pleased with all the storage it offers, but I promise you will always need a little more. Baskets and bins are a great way to decorate and add organization.
Organizing food into bins can be very helpful. As a 5’ 4” person, I find it challenging to reach those top shelves even with a small stool. Having bins that you can pull out for spices can be a lifesaver or at least a fall saver. I wholly recommend bins.
Baskets control the clutter and add homey touches. Need a nightstand but do not have room, hang a basket. You can find baskets in various styles and sizes. Fitting baskets into your decor is easy.
This wire basket is perfect for spices besides the stove. It adds storage and keeps things tidy, which keeps you from feeling claustrophobic. Because of the small space, it feels even smaller when an RV has clutter.
The bathroom is the smallest area of most RVs and campers. It also needs lots of storage. Usually, there is very little room in the bathroom vanity to store more than a towel or maybe two. Hanging baskets on the towel bar adds storage for all those bathroom must-haves like hair and makeup products.
These wire bins are a great way to keep clutter corralled in a bathroom. It also makes it easy for guests to find necessities.
4. Curtains, Curtains, Curtains
Curtains can be a bold focal point in an RV space without seeming like the room is closing in. Curtains can add texture and color without adding to the busyness of the room.
Hanging fabric to divide and define spaces can make your RV feel cozier. Sometimes a curtain is needed for privacy, and sometimes it is required to block light for better sleep.
You can also use fabric to hide unsightly storage. Not everything fits into baskets and bins. Hanging fabric on this bottom bunk can create hidden storage or private sleeping quarters.
When using a theme to decorate, fabric can be an easy solution. You can find fabrics in thousands of colors, prints, textures, and thicknesses on the internet and at your door the next day.
Don’t forget your shower curtain when you are considering your decorative style. This is another DIY or purchase that can reflect any style, theme, or notion. Even if your shower has a door, you can add a pop of color to the side to soften the whole look.
Fabric patterns can be mixed to add interest. These pieces of red, green, and white prints coordinate perfectly for a vintage feel. The most important thing is for you to love it.
5. Knobs, Pegs, and Hooks
A quick and easy weekend project can be trading dated knobs and pulls in for newer or themed ones. Also, pegs and hooks can add storage without losing style. This decorator uses a deer rack to hang essential items.
Updated cabinet hardware can quickly transform your RV look with little effort or know-how needed. This trick works even if you choose to paint your cabinets or not.
Hooks can be practical and needed. Very useful in an entrance, hooks can be installed to corral everyone’s shoes. This is a genius idea.
Hooks in the kitchen can display your cookware or utensils. This puts things at your fingertips but also adds decor.
Pegboards can be added to a wall or even a storage bin to help with optimizing and organizing spaces. This is a great way to organize all the tools in a small area that can get cluttered quickly, and you can lose tools into the abyss.
6. Fixtures
Changing fixtures can be a noticeable transformation in the look and feel of an RV and its function. Sometimes RV manufacturers overlook the need for a tall faucet for washing dishes. And most of us like a shower head that can handle water pressure and has a massage feature.
This bathroom fixture transformation makes a big difference in eye appeal and feels more like a spa than a small RV shower. Whether you live full-time in your camper or just on weekend getaways, who doesn’t like a great shower.
Lovely fixtures can add a modern, sleek finish. It feels expensive and tranquil. Bathrooms that are frequently visited should be comfortable and clean.
This outdated bathroom sink remodels added the feel and look of luxury. The bathroom can be a place to add nice touches to add value if resale is an option.
7. Rugs
Rugs are a great way to express your personal style. This decorator added an Aztec pattern to make it have a southwestern feel. Rugs can be replaced or changed frequently and quickly. I tend to get tired of looking at the same things, so I redo or rearrange often.
This example shows a soft filigree motif to brighten a dark brown interior. It adds a stark difference to its background, making it the room’s feature.
Rugs and corresponding pillows can add themes. Here we have a striped pattern displayed with the added stylized pillows in complimentary colors. The lines draw your eyes to the pillows and comfy sofa.
8. Shelves
Open shelves are a trendy design now. There are not many surfaces to decorate in a camper due to space, so adding a shelf or open shelving can be a great way to display items you love or dishes.
These Boho shelves give this small space a sense of openness that closed cabinets could not attain. I love the neutral colors and textures.
This tiny shelf adds dimension and detail to a plain kitchen window. It is the perfect place for a pop of color and personality. It even adds a bit of privacy without adding a curtain or valance.
9. Blankets and Throws
This beautiful vintage crocheted afghan was probably the inspiration for this hombre design. It is gorgeous and coordinated perfectly. It makes you want to curl up with a good book.
Notice this example of a neutral background with the only color coming in the throws and pillows. The style of this whole room can be transformed into any color or pattern you wish in a few minutes. I love the versatility.
This RV owner mixed beige and gray for a modern color scheme but added a lovely soft, snuggly blanket to soften those lines and colors.
Mixing more than one complimentary throw can be an excellent way to add textures, and a soft throw adds a comfortable accent.
10. Art
A black framed monotone picture can make a focal point on a white wall. It can add inspiration and a trendy farmhouse look.
Mixed frames and pictures work perfectly with Boho, whimsy, or eclectic designs. My only requirement for decor is that I love it. It must bring me joy when you have many things to keep clean or dust. That does not bring me joy.
Framed or not, words of humor or inspiration can add a relaxed, homey feeling. It will help you make your RV inviting to family and guests. It also reveals a bit of personality, which can be significant.
11. Hanging your towels as decor to free up storage
This is one of my favorite finds! Turkish towels solved a couple of problems for me. One, it is so much thinner than a regular towel, so storage was a lot easier to manage and the second is my RV has a washer and dryer combo, but they are small. Washing 6 traditional towels would take me 2-3 loads. I can wash all 6 of my towels in one wash with Turkish towels. And they look great hanging in a bathroom.
These are my favorites. They dry and are very absorbent and dry quickly.
These towels also conserve water by hanging them to dry and reuse. We each have our own towel and hanger. I also think these are so pretty when displayed.
You can find them in neutral or coordinating colors. They look expensive and luxurious without being. These towels are comparable to cheap towels but with higher quality.
When you are using traditional towels, a wine rack can display them neatly. Many use this trick in their RV and their homes also. It is an excellent way to add color and texture. They can also be changed when you change your colors.
12. Light fixtures and Lamps
This is one of my favorite updates or decorating tips. Changing your lighting fixtures is the perfect way to update or change your look. It can also be challenging. When changing your fixture, please remember to check the voltage and replace it accordingly.
I love this chandelier. It has an expensive but rugged, simple look. It matches the design of this RV. I love the stark difference between white and black. With this canvas, you could pop any color you want and change it on a whim.
This is a genius idea when you cannot change your fixture. You can update those fixtures with details like a basket.
This DIYer places fabric pieces around the lights to resemble and hombre fringe. This is so cool and would fit several different decorating styles.
This fixture would be perfect for an island in an RV. It is a 12-volt fixture specific for campers and RVs. Its style is very versatile.
13. Lighting accents as decor. String lights
This set of fairy lights on a dreamcatcher sets a tranquil mood for relaxing and falling asleep. It would be a fantastic nightlight.
These string lights create a romantic feel and could also serve as a nightlight. I love the neutral scheme and the softness of the string lights.
Soft string lights are a warm touch, especially where light fixtures are unavailable. Many enjoy fairy and string lights near sleeping areas.
String lights are practical for your outside area when you are camping. It is welcoming and allows you and your guests to navigate the site without accidents.
14. Incorporating your appliances into the decor.
Appliances do not have to be unsightly or plain. They can be a focal point in your design. I love the addition of vinyl to this fridge. The dandelion pattern is beautiful and art all on its own.
If your Refridgerator needs an update, this chrome vinyl is a cheap way to make a significant impact. Chrome is just one option of many.
This fridge has added blackboard vinyl to allow its surface to be changed and styled as you desire. I love this idea for children! I know one little girl who would love to create a piece of art here.
15. Mirrors
Mirrors can be an RVers best friend if you need to feel like you need the space to feel more prominent or even lighter. When mirrors reflect light, it tricks your eyes into seeing double the space and light. If your camper uses a lot of dark browns, mirrors can be just what you need.
We expect to find mirrors in bathrooms, but updating one in an RV can add value and make a tiny bathroom feel expanded.
16. Make lifestyle Choices Decor: Coffee, Tea, Music, Office, Faith, Humor
Including your daily life into your decor makes life so much simpler. Not having to move things around in order to work, cook, or even do yoga makes those things less of a chore and more enjoyable. This desk replaced the dinette set that was never used. Now going to work is easy without feeling cramped.
If you are a dedicated coffee drinker, your coffee pot and accessories will always be on display in a convenient place. Embrace this and include a coffee station in your decor.
Adding quotes and words that support your faith or philosophy is a great way to add your personality and bring joy to your space.
There are a lot of funny idioms and quips. Adding these touches to your decor becomes great conversation starters with guests.
17. Add vinyl and lettering
Adding vinyl lettering and images has become a popular way to label, decorate, and add personality. I love this welcome chandelier added to this door. It is so inviting.
Lettering can be added to a dining table. This would be a great place to put family names, camping recipes, or even websites for takeout.
Vinyl decals are also a current trend for the outside of your RV. Everyone loves customization.
18. Furniture covers
If you are not particularly fond of your sofa pattern, you can quickly use a furniture cover or even a thin blanket to change its look. This is also a great idea because you can easily throw it into the washer and not worry about the kids soiling it.
This is a great way to change your fabric colors without using a sewing machine. Also, I can tell you upholstery fabric is not cheap. It is cheaper to buy a cover.
19. Functional furniture
Ok, let’s admit that sometimes RV furniture is not the most comfortable. Don’t be afraid to change out your furniture for traditional pieces. I ditched a sofa for a couple of small recliners because it made more sense for our family.
This owner has traded their RV furniture for a lovely sectional. Just keep in mind your furniture must come apart and fit through the door to be reassembled.
20. Decorating Your Entry
I love this door!! It is a great way to make a statement before your guests enter your rig.
It’s also an excellent way to impress the neighbors.
I am in love with a good screen door, and this one is amazing. Everyone does not have the skill to create this, but if you do, I would. It will have the campground buzzing.
Adding a vintage wallpaper to your door will make a statement and lend some authenticity to your vintage design. Color coordinating patterns will add whimsy and style.
Also, if you want to impress your neighbors, you can accessorize your outside area to match your rig and show off your personality.
21. Bedding
Bedding is essential to me. When I lay down, I want to lay down in a cushy bed with a soft, comfy blanket that feels like a luxury hotel. Sheets are nothing to skimp on, even in your camper.
Color coordinating bedding and pillows are a must when you are decorating. It may be the most important. Everyone wants their camping vacation to have some luxury.
Neutral beige or white are perfect for a minimalistic style. It looks clean and luxurious.
Adding a striped pattern to neutral bedding adds depth and a pop of color. I love the look of this vintage navy stripe.
22. Plants and flowers
Placing plants strategically around your rig can give it an outdoor feel. I have never been successful growing anything, so I will have to choose silk.
Succulents can be grown just about anywhere. They are also very hardy and easy to take care of. This hoop and succulent combo are charming.
If you choose hanging plants, they can be hung inside or out, depending on the weather. They can brighten up your entry or your living area.
23. Countertop Makeovers
Revamping countertops has become easier with better options than replacing them. You can use vinyl as they have here. It is very durable and doable with thicker professional vinyl.
You can also recover the countertops with a sheet of Formica veneer like they did in this video.
The new countertops look amazing, but it does require a bit of skill.
Painting your countertops with a special paint made expressly for that purpose is the option that takes the least amount of talent and money.
24. Color
I love this 50’s teal! The white with black and some copper is classy, but the pop of teal makes it fun. These teal touches could easily be changed to yellow or red without too much thought.
Here is that teal with the fore mentioned yellow and red. I know it is a little much for some, but I love it. It reminds me of the 50s and my granddaughter’s dollhouse. It is so sweet.
This design makes me think back to camping as a child. These are the patterns and colors that accompanied those campouts at the river. It makes me miss my grandmother.
25. Paint
There is nothing that will change a look faster than paint. It can also be the best bang for your buck. It will take patience and many coats, but the result is worth it.
Most campers and RVs start with wallpaper. I have painted wallpaper, and it is doable, but it will take you four or five coats. There is a coating and paste on wallpaper that will require many coats. Patience is key. The painting will not be a quick fix.
Painting cabinets can be rewarding. I love the white at the top contrasted with the black on the bottom cabinets. Cabinets like RV wallpaper will take many coats, even with a good primer.
I picked this example because of the stark difference displayed from everything else I have seen. I don’t know if I could live in this style, but I would love to camp in it for a weekend. It is beautiful.
Paint isn’t just for the inside of a camper. You can paint the outside too. I know this rig gets eyed everywhere it goes. It would make me want to see the inside. Anyone who paints their camper this way is begging for company.
You can see the drastic difference white can make in a small space before and after. It looks so clean and open. The focal point becomes the accents you add that bring you joy.
Look at this pastel mint on the bottom cabinets with the floral rug. It is so precious. It is just enough color to give the room some depth. We have to mention how the gold hardware sets it all off.
Decorating your RV or camper can be a lot of fun. The most important thing is to make it feel like a vacation or holiday. When it is designed and decorated to be comfortable and inviting, you will want to use it more often. If like me, you are a full-time RVer, you know that comfort and function trump all. Everything has to have a purpose or function because the space is tiny.
Clutter is not your friend. I have chosen this minimalistic lifestyle because I do not want to collect stuff but memories. I do not wish to dust daily, so I do not have a lot of decor sitting around. I have a pretty large RV, but I still discard things that are not useful or do not bring me joy. Cleaning does not bring me joy. My life is about the moments that bring me joy and having more of them.